Consider the following statements: Statement I: At the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), India refrained from signing the ‘Declaration on Climate and Health’. Statement II: The COP 28 Declaration on Climate and Health is a binding declaration; and if signed, it becomes mandatory to decarbonize health sector. Statement III: If India’s health sector is decarbonized, the resilience of its health- care system may be compromised. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

1. A. Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I
2. B. Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of the them explains Statement I
3. C. Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I
4. D. Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct

Answer: C

Explanation

Statement I is correct: India indeed refrained from signing the COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health. Statement II is incorrect: The COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health is a non-binding call to action, not a legally binding declaration. Therefore, signing it would not make decarbonizing the health sector mandatory in a legal sense, though it would imply a commitment. Statement III is correct: India expressed concerns that commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly for cooling applications in the health sector, could impede its ability to meet the growing demands for medical services, especially in remote and underserved areas. This concern about compromising the resilience of its healthcare system is a valid reason for India’s decision not to sign, thus explaining Statement I. Climate change negotiations and India’s stance on international environmental agreements are highly relevant for UPSC.